Singer-actor Gerald Santos

MANILA -- Singer-actor Gerald Santos is set to play the lead role in the upcoming original Filipino musical "Haphow," produced by CityDanse Academy. 

The musical, which will be staged at Newport World Resorts, tells a touching story about friendship, environmental conservation, and self-discovery.

According to Santos, "Haphow" represents fundamental virtues that Filipinos should uphold.

"'Haphow' stands for humility, acceptance, patience, honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness to change," he explained. 

"Napaka-heartwarming nitong musical na 'to because it’s about the core of Filipino values," he added. 

Santos is honored to have been handpicked to play the titular character of Haphow, saying it resonates with him as he strives to be a role model. 

"I'm really blessed and thankful for CityDanse Academy. Nung sinend nila 'yung materials sa akin, I was overwhelmed kasi it also resonates with me. I'm really trying my best to be a role model," he said. 

Santos also emphasized that the musical is not just for children but also for all audiences.

"Marami silang mauuwi—mafi-feel nila sa puso nila na dapat tayong maging mabuting tao, pangalagaan natin ang environment, at maging mabuting example tayo sa lahat," he added.

Musical composer MJ Aspacio shared that "Haphow" serves as a timely reminder for Filipinos, especially the younger generation, to uphold traditional values.

"What's happening right now is that people forget our roots and core values. 'Haphow' is about these core values. Our generation right now, we tend to forget to be respectful to the elderly, so we incorporated that into the musical," Aspacio said.

Audiences can watch "Haphow" at Newport World Resorts from May 28-30 and September 5-7, 2025.

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